Monday, December 5, 2011

What do you do?

At the craft fair on Saturday, a woman walked up to my booth and asked me, "What do you do?"I responded with, "I make all of the items you see here."Which to she responded, "No, I mean do you make those infant headbands?"I responded, "No, but I make hats and other baby items."My response was met with, "Oh," and she walked away.I was confused by the exchange because I could plainly see what I do by my display and I thought it was self-evident. If I was to make infant headbands (by which I think she meant the stretchy ones with the huge silk flower attached), then I would have them displayed.

Over the past two days I've been thinking about her initial question.What do I do?I would describe myself as a fiber and paper artisan.I take raw materials - yarn, recycled cashmere, wool, vintage buttons, paper, embellishments and create things of beauty - clothing, accessories, and stationary items.Sometimes consumable - although many people keep handmade cards.Most are works of art that are both functional and beautiful. They can be passed down through generations, cherished by many.

I create many of my pieces because it is good for my soul. I pray while I crochet, handstitch, and create cards. I find peace in my work. It is a little time in the day that I have with God, away from everyday demands. I'm better equipped to be a good mother, wife, and friend when I have this time to create these things of beauty and spend quality time in God's presence.